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Zika virus is spread to people through mosquito bites. The most common symptoms of Zika virus disease are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting from several days to a week. Severe disease requiring hospitalization is uncommon, however Zika virus infection has been linked to poor pregnancy outcomes and birth defects.

LATEST UPDATES FROM THE CDC:

CDC updated interim guidance includes the following new recommendations:

Those who are planning to become pregnant in the near future should consider avoiding nonessential travel to areas with active Zika virus transmission.

The amount of time to wait to attempt conception for couples in which the man has had possible Zika exposure but no Zika symptoms has increased from at least 8 weeks (previous guidance) to at least 6 months after last possible exposure (updated guidance).

The amount of time to use a condom to protect against transmission of Zika virus infection or not have sex for men with possible Zika exposure but without symptoms has increased from at least 8 weeks to at least 6 months after last possible exposure.